Celiac Disease-Part 2 

Nutritional Concerns

Last week I wrote about what celiac disease is, how it is diagnosed, and basic considerations.  This week I want to educate you on the nutritional concerns when following such a strict diet and dietary guidelines for healthy eating.  I highly recommend you seek a dietitian to help you navigate through all this if you decide to initiate a wheat-free lifestyle.

Specific Nutritional Concerns

• Folate Deficiency-folate is in many everyday enriched foods.  This is of particular concern if you are of child-bearing age and/or want children.  All women of child-bearing age or those who want to be pregnant should consume 400 micrograms from supplements or fortified foods to help  prevent neural tube defects.
• Bone Disease-Those diagnosed with celiac, esp later in life have an increase of osteoporosis as a deficiency in the metabolism in these nutrients is known.  Therefore your goal is to consume 3 high calcium foods/day.  
• Dietary Fiber-dietary fiber is the part of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds, and legumes that cannot be broken down by the digestive system.  Fiber is very important in the digestive process and in the prevention of chronic diseases.  When you embark on a gluten-free diet, many times you decrease your fiber intake.  

Stay tuned as I discuss dietary guidelines you can follow to optimize your nutrition while following a celiac diet!

High-Fiber Hot Cereal

3 Tbsp Flax Seed Meal

3 Tbsp Cream of Brown Rice Hot Cereal

1 1/3 cup water

dash of vanilla

Combine first 3 ingredients and cook on high for 3-4 minutes.  Stir in vanilla.  Serve with brown sugar, nuts, and/or dried fruits!

For more information on our Sensibalance Wellness Program, CLICK HERE!

Make sure you follow us on Pinterest as we post to our Gluten-Free Board often!

Melanie Rubery MS RD